Dented Cans: Plane Cargo Impact?

  • Thread starter rasko
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In summary, when a plane takes off, the cargo may shift and cause dents in cans due to collisions with other objects. Dented cans are generally safe to consume, but severe dents can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria. Dented cans are not allowed to be sold in stores, but some may be sold at a discounted price with a disclaimer. To prevent dents, precautions such as proper packaging and avoiding stacking heavy items on top of cans can be taken. Regulations from the FAA and FDA are in place to ensure the safety of consumers.
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rasko
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A friend of mine imported some foods packaged in aluminum cans (vacuum packing). The goods were delivered by a cago plane, after arrival a part of the cans were found dented. It really confused me. Could that be caused by the airplane flight?
 
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  • #2
The pressure in the cargo bay is much lower, but that can't cause the cans to dent inwards under any condition. Most likely, the cans were dented from impact while being handled. If you've seen the way luggage is typically handled, you wouldn't be surprised.
 

1. How does plane cargo impact cause dents in cans?

When a plane takes off, it accelerates quickly, causing the cargo to shift and move inside the plane. This movement can cause the cans to collide with each other or with other objects, resulting in dents.

2. Are dented cans safe to consume?

In most cases, dented cans are safe to consume. However, if the dent is severe or has caused a puncture in the can, it can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria. It is best to discard severely dented cans to avoid any potential foodborne illnesses.

3. Can dented cans be sold in stores?

In general, dented cans are not allowed to be sold in stores as they may pose a safety risk to consumers. However, some dented cans may still be safe to consume, and in those cases, stores may sell them at a discounted price with a disclaimer about the dent.

4. How can dented cans be prevented during plane cargo impact?

Certain precautions can be taken to prevent dents in cans during plane cargo impact. These include proper packaging and securing of the cargo, using shock-absorbing materials, and avoiding stacking heavy items on top of cans.

5. Are there any regulations in place for dented cans caused by plane cargo impact?

Yes, there are regulations in place to ensure the safety of consumers. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has regulations for the packaging and handling of hazardous materials, including food items, during air transportation. Additionally, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has guidelines for food can manufacturers to ensure the integrity of their products.

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